26 Exciting Things to Do in Arkansas in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Many of us (including me) are guilty of living in a state and not exploring its great attractions and hidden gems. And folks, when it comes to Arkansas, that’s no different! At the start of the year, while we had all of our resolutions listed, we may have committed to exploring the best attractions in Arkansas. Now we are over halfway through the year, but worry not – there's still time left to tackle your Arkansas bucket list! From small-town festivals to bucket list-worthy hiking trails to natural wonders to hidden gem restaurants, and more, here are the best things to do in Arkansas in 2026. Let’s make this an unforgettable year by falling in love with the beautiful Natural State!

1. Hike to The Most Photographed Destination in the Ozarks

Some destinations sell themselves. As one of the most photographed locations in Arkansas, it’s easy to see why Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) made my list. It’s also a romantic place to visit – lots of couples create new memories while perched atop this crag in the Ozarks. The Whitaker Point Trail is about 1.4 miles one way or 2.9 miles round-trip. Perhaps my future husband will propose to me here, too. Folks, I’m dreaming big the rest of 2026!

2. Spend the Night in a Luxury Cave 

Speaking of dreaming big. Ever since I discovered Beckham Creek Cave Lodge in Parthenon, AR, it has been on my bucket list. While it’s pretty expensive to spend the night in this luxury cave, I’m sure I could find several loved ones who don’t mind splitting the cost of this unique experience. It blends modern amenities such as a kitchen, WiFi, and a smart TV. Also, here you can enjoy raw geological features, including waterfalls, natural rock walls, and a blue lake. You probably could too! Life is short, so why not live it up to the fullest?  

3. Candlelight Music on Valentine's Day in Little Rock

The “candlelight” concert features tribute bands and classical music. Some of its most popular shows include Christmas classics, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Adele tributes, and Neo-Soul favorites such as Prince and Childish Gambino. I am not currently in a relationship, but I hope to enjoy a fun musical performance at the Albert Pike Masonic Center in Little Rock. And if I don’t have a date, then I will grab a few of my girlfriends for a fun night out. 

4. Snap a Pic Next to a Unique Frozen Waterfall

In my life, I’ve only seen a handful of frozen waterfalls. While frozen cascades are pretty lovely, I can’t say the same about the weather. But there is one waterfall in Arkansas that I am willing to bundle up to see, and that’s Glory Hole Waterfall. It’s arguably the most unique waterfall in the Ozarks, and I think it belongs on your 2026 bucket list, too. Keep in mind that personal safety should always be a priority while hiking in winter, as trails can be slick during colder months. Therefore, ensure to dress warmly and wear non-slippery boots for health and safety as you enjoy this beautiful winter wonderland.

5. Eat at One of the Most Delicious Catfish Restaurants 

There’s always an argument about who has the best catfish in Arkansas, but I’d rather not go down that road. However, I do want to try the catfish at Dondie's White River Princess in Des Arc because it’s highly recommended. Plus, the restaurant serves all-you-can-eat seafood with views of the White River. You can’t beat that! Even though the restaurant is known for its delicious fried catfish, Dondies also offers a buffet featuring mouthwatering oysters, fried shrimp, and various sides such as coleslaw, mac & cheese, and delicious hushpuppies.

6. Arkansas Grand Canyon and Cliff House Inn Restaurant

I know that Arkansas’s Grand Canyon doesn’t compare to the one in Arizona, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to see it. This will be a day trip activity, as I also want to stop by the iconic Cliff House Restaurant for a bite to eat. It's best to take a scenic photo at sunrise or sunset from overlooks like the one near Cliffhouse Inn on Highway 27.

7. A Day Trip to Eureka Springs 

If you ask me, a visit to Eureka Springs should be on your bucket list, too. After all, this charming town was voted as one of the “27 Prettiest American Small Towns.” There is so much to do and see here, and it’s one of the best destinations for a day trip in Arkansas. Also, if you travel during the off-season, you can stay at the Basin Park Hotel and Spa for a reasonable price. 

8. Road Trip to Explore the National Parks

Did you know that there are seven national parks in Arkansas? While Hot Springs National State Park and the Buffalo National River are the most popular, I would love to plan a road trip to see all seven parks. Thankfully, our friends at REI are selling the America the Beautiful Pass, which also grants me access to all the national parks across the country. I see many other road trips in the near future.  

9. Stand-Up Paddleboarding Around Eureka Springs Lakes

Our friends at Viator have this cool Stand Up Paddleboard adventure that I would love to try. They promise a fun-filled, peaceful tour to explore cliffs, waterfalls, and waterways. Furthermore, calmer waters are always best as they provide for the best wildlife spotting. I think it would be an excellent activity for my family and me. 

10. Camp at Lake Ouachita State Park

We call this dreamy oasis a little slice of paradise. Lake Ouachita is by far one of the cleanest lakes in Arkansas. The state park is a premier destination for water sports and camping under the stars. Spending the night on one of the islands would be the ultimate outdoor dream. Lake Ouachita is an excellent camping destination, offering sites for RVs, tents, trailers, and cabins.

11. Make My Own Bottle of Wine

I am always on the lookout for unique activities. So, when I came across An Enchanting Evening Winery in Roland, I was sold. Seriously, when will I have the chance to personalize and make my own bottle of wine? I might even consider this for a romantic getaway since the venue also has a cabin.

12. Glow in the Dark Activity at Pinspiration Bentonville

I’ve done paint nights with my friends and family before, but nothing compares to Pinspiration in Bentonville. This trendy DIY craft studio allows us to let our creativity shine by making unique art pieces. Plus, there is wine, and you can splatter paint all over a wall inside a glow-in-the-dark room. Sounds like an excellent night to me. 

13. Visit the Festivals at Garvan Woodland Gardens

No matter the season, there is always a festival happening at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs. It comes alive with twinkling lights at Christmas and is filled with pretty blooms in the spring and summer. Of course, autumn is beautiful too. It’s a dreamy fairytale garden full of adventure. 

14. Watch the Sunset Over Little Rock From a Houseboat

Renting a houseboat in Arkansas can be pricey. But there is an adorable houseboat in Little Rock that I found on Airbnb.  This one-bedroom floating home boasts stunning views of the Little Rock skyline and gorgeous sunsets, too.  

15. Attend a Quirky Small-Town Festival

Arkansas isn’t known for having massive festivals. In fact, most of the best festivals here are found in the small towns. One in particular is the Goat Festival in Perryville. This quirky, family-friendly event attracts goat lovers from across the state, and I don’t want to miss it this October. If you love these adorable animals as much as I do, then you’ll want to attend this fun festival in Arkansas this year. 

16. Camping along the Buffalo National River

When it comes to iconic outdoor destinations in Arkansas, the Buffalo National River is at the top of the list. Floating the river and then spending the night underneath the twinkling stars at Steel Creek Campground would be a dream come true for me.

17. Stand atop the Summit of Pinnacle Mountain

There’s nothing better than feeling like you’re standing on top of the world. You know, that feeling of overwhelming joy that you get when you’ve conquered something big. I believe that’s how I will feel when I take on the challenge of reaching the peak of Pinnacle Mountain.

18. Go On an Underground Cave Adventure

Of course, I would love to see all the caves in Arkansas. The good news is that there are approximately six caves within driving distance of each other in NWA. I can easily cover most, if not all, of them in one day, or I could extend my stay in Northwest Arkansas and make it a weekend-long trip. Who’s game for this underground adventure this summer?

19. Visit a Whimsical Art Studio

As one of Arkansas's true hidden gems, I have always wanted to visit Terra Studios in Fayetteville. My inner artist loves unique artwork, and I can’t wait to see the quirky sculptures, murals, and the stone labyrinth.

20. Attend a Hot Air Balloon Festival

I don’t necessarily want to soar through the sky, but a tethered hot air balloon ride sounds excellent to me. Therefore, I would love to attend the Arkansas Hot Air Balloon Championship this September in Harrison to ride one of the balloons. Plus, there are balloon races, a balloon glow, helicopter rides, games, free live entertainment, and more. It’s one of the best festivals in Arkansas.  

21. Get an Arkansas State Parks Passport

Do you have your Arkansas State Parks Passport? I don’t either! But no worries, it’s on my list of things to do in Arkansas this year. I think it would be cool to get it stamped with all 52 state parks. Since there are 52 weeks in a year, maybe I could visit one park per week. I'd better start planning! 

22. Feel Like a Kid Inside This Bentonville Tiny Home

As a big kid at heart, this tiny home in Bentonville is the ultimate getaway for me. It features tall ceilings that make the space seem roomier as well as two bedrooms, a washer and dryer, a kitchen, and an EV charger. It's also conveniently located near downtown Bentonville. Talk about a bucket list-worthy destination! 

23. Visit the ESSE Purse Museum & Store

I used to collect purses, and many are extensions of my personality. So, of course, this quirky purse museum in Little Rock is on my list. I don’t know if I will purchase more handbags for my collection, but it would make me happy to see all the purses and other accessories.  

24. Love Lock in a Romantic Small Town

I can’t say that I am a hopeless romantic, but I must admit that when I found out that Paris, Arkansas, has a love lock fence similar to the one in Paris, France, I was intrigued. I might not make it across the oceans this year, but I can certainly hop in my car to visit his romantic town in Arkansas. 

25. Fall Day at The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park

One of the prettiest places to visit in the fall in Arkansas is The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park in North Little Rock. The historical mill was in the opening scene of the classic 1939 film Gone with the Wind. The park is filled with picturesque landscapes that make for great photo backdrops. 

26. Chase Waterfalls Along the Pig Trail Scenic Byway

Wondering why The Pig Trail Scenic Byway made it to this list? Well, it's famous for its mountain vistas and dramatic curves. Also, there are many hidden waterfalls along the route, and very few people know about this secret. When you visit, be sure to stop by the following spots to experience scenic views:

• Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area
• Turner Bend Overlook
• The roadside cascades (usually appear after spring rains), and
• Glory Hole Trailhead area

You can consider visiting during the fall or spring for gorgeous drives, scenic photography, hikes, and peaceful nature walks.

Okay, folks, now that you have my list of the 26 best things to do in Arkansas, are you excited to create your own experiences? Let’s all commit to adding these attractions to our bucket lists for the rest of this year. I am excited to make 2026 a year to remember. I hope you are too. You can reach out through this nomination page. Also, be sure to utilize our itinerary planner to map out your unforgettable adventure to Arkansas!